AFC 'disappointed' over lack of consultation on FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal
Kuala Lumpur, July 29
The Asian Football Confederation on Wednesday expressed disappointment over not being consulted before FIFA confirmed its proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise, saying a matter of such significance should have first been discussed through established governance channels.
In a statement, the AFC said it had taken note of FIFA's proposal to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise but was "not consulted" before details entered the public domain.
"The AFC was not consulted on the proposal and is disappointed that a matter of such significance entered the public domain before the AFC family had been afforded the opportunity to examine and discuss it through the appropriate and established governance channels," the continental body said.
FIFA's proposal seeks to create FIFA Forward Enterprise, a commercial subsidiary that would manage the governing body's commercial rights, including broadcasting, sponsorship, ticketing and licensing. The world governing body plans to raise 4.2 billion US dollars by selling minority, non-controlling stakes in the subsidiary to private investors, with the funds earmarked for significantly increasing development grants to its 211 member associations.
While acknowledging the need to explore new ways to strengthen global football, the AFC stressed that any initiative with such far-reaching implications must be guided by good governance, transparency and meaningful consultation.
The confederation said decisions that could reshape football's commercial and financial future require comprehensive engagement with continental confederations, member associations and other stakeholders before being placed before FIFA's decision-making bodies.
"The AFC firmly believes that all stakeholders should be provided with sufficient information and adequate time to assess the proposal in full, including its governance, legal, commercial and strategic implications," the statement said.
The statement comes amid growing scrutiny of FIFA's proposal, with UEFA also strongly opposing the plan and raising concerns over governance and transparency. FIFA has said the proposal will be presented to its Council and all 211 member associations for consideration before any final decision is taken.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As an Indian football fan, I'm tired of these backroom deals. The AFC is right to be angry. If FIFA wants to "strengthen global football," they should start by respecting the existing governance channels. Otherwise, it's just another way for the bigwigs to enrich themselves while smaller nations like ours get crumbs.
Hmm, 4.2 billion dollars is a lot of money for "development grants." But knowing FIFA's history with corruption (hello, 2015), I'm skeptical. If they want to involve private equity, fine, but at least let the AFC and UEFA examine the proposal properly. Transparency is key, yaar. 🤔
Good on AFC for speaking up. FIFA keeps making these grand plans without consulting anyone, and then expects everyone to fall in line. If they want to sell minority stakes, who will control the commercial rights? Will it affect broadcasting deals for Asian football? These are legitimate concerns that need answers.
Typical FIFA - announce first, apologize later. The AFC's statement is spot on. Selling commercial rights to private investors could change the entire landscape of football financing. I'd like to see the full proposal before forming an opinion, but the lack of consultation is worrying. 🇮🇳⚽
AFC is absolutely right to push back. How can FIFA claim to be "forward-looking" when they ignore established governance channels? India's football scene is growing, and we need more investment, but it must be done the right way. Otherwise, it's just the same old story of the rich getting richer.
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